The list of specialists mentioned in the ordinance includes pest control companies, exterminators, veterinarians or "similar animal control professionals."

The plan leaves it up to the city manager and police chief to determine whether the permit applicant has proper training. Officials also can limit the hours and locations in which the applicant is permitted to discharge the weapon.

Weirdest Creatures of the World

City leaders asked for help from state Fish and Game officials, but they were told they could not get involved unless a coyote directly attacked a person, City Manager Leslie Keane said.

The city contracted with Laguna Beach for animal control services, but that doesn't include shooting the coyotes.

Authorities said coyote attacks have been an ongoing problem in Laguna Woods. On Tuesday, a woman said she was dragged by her leash when she tried to protect her Yorkshire terrier from coyotes. The dog was killed. The woman suffered minor injuries.